Frequently asked questions about eyelid surgery
Eyelid surgery is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the Netherlands. It is a relatively simple procedure. Yet questions often arise. These are the most frequently asked questions about eyelid surgery and our answers.
How long does eyelid surgery take?
Eyelid surgery takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Do I have to go under anesthesia during eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery is performed under local anesthesia. This means we numb your eyelids. The procedure takes about 45 minutes and the anesthesia wears off after about one hour. By the way, it is possible to have an eyelid correction performed under anesthesia through MOOI Clinic.
Is it painful?
He who wants to be beautiful must suffer pain is the saying. Fortunately, this does not apply to eyelid surgery. Because you are sedated, the procedure itself does not hurt. Some people do find that putting the anesthetic feels unpleasant, but a special technique allows us to inject almost painlessly these days. After the procedure, you hardly experience any pain but take it easy. Discomfort can be relieved well with paracetamol.
How do I look after the procedure?
After eyelid surgery, your eyelids are swollen. Sometimes bruises are visible, making it look like you have a black eye. In addition, we use band-aids to tape off the sutures. These are removed after about a week at our location.
How long does it take for everything to heal?
This varies from person to person, but on average it takes 6 weeks for the scar to heal properly. It takes a year to mature completely.
How long will the effect last?
Again, this varies from person to person, but usually you will enjoy your eyelid surgery for a few years (sometimes 10 sometimes 15 years or longer). Because you naturally age over the years anyway, after a few years your eyelids may start drooping again. You may then consider having the procedure done again.
Why is eyelid surgery at MOOI Clinic more expensive than at the doctor’s office?
This is due to the difference in education (and experience). At MOOI Clinic, we only work with experienced plastic surgeons. The title “Plastic Surgeon” is a protected title in Europe. The title “Cosmetic physician” may be held by anyone who has passed a medical degree, including general practitioners. So an eyelid correction at MOOI Clinic is always performed by a plastic surgeon, which assures you of the highest possible level of training, experience and care. Check out our rates here.
Is eyelid surgery reimbursed?
In exceptional cases, upper eyelid surgery is reimbursed. A lower eyelid correction is never covered by your health insurance company anyway. You can read more about reimbursements here.
Will the scars soon be visible?
With an upper eyelid surgery, we make sure the scar falls nicely into your eye crease. When you have your eyes open, the scar will not be noticeable. The scar may be a little red-colored for the first few months, though, making the scar a little more noticeable when you close your eyes.
In lower eyelid surgery, we remove the excess skin (or puffiness). The plastic surgeon makes a small incision under the lash line from the eyelid to the outer corner of the eye. The scar is barely visible after recovery.
How do I prepare for eyelid surgery?
There are a number of things you can do in preparation for eyelid surgery. Read our tips here.
May I drive a car after surgery?
No, you will not be able to drive yourself after the procedure. Take someone with you to have them take you home. Of course, MOOI Clinic can arrange a cab for you.
